Native to Persia and Central Asia, this originates in dry, mountainous areas, and need good drainage and lots of sun. Dense racemes up to 12” (30cm) of bright yellow flowers fading to orange brown, set against greyish green leaves. They grow to 48"(120cm), making a great impact. Noble perennial plants with tuberous roots shaped rather like a dead starfish. Although considered difficult we find that if the circumstances are right they really are much more accommodating than is first imagined. Treat them as solitary plants without shade over the soil in which they grow, especially in the summer when this needs to be sun warmed. The early forms in particular emerge early and may need protection against really sharp frosts, and they are palatable to slugs at this stage too. But most of the early references suggest they will only grow on light soil, and our experience is that this is not true, they positively revel in our heavy loam. Whilst they might appeal as a plant for the back of the border, this often becomes a shaded site in the summer and is not ideal in most cases. Yellow flowers in June on stems growing to 48"(120 cm) high.
Planting instructions
Plant in well drained soil about 6" (15cm) deep making the hole much larger than the root. Allow about 1 per sq ft. They prefer lighter soils but more important to provide space and light. They might need a mulch against extreme cold as they emerge early undisturbed and care should be taken against slugs. After flowering keep as dry as possible.
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